Reflecting on Veteran’s Day

Veteran’s Day is celebrated only once a year. It is a day to reflect on those who chose to serve their country. Given the value of the services that our veterans provide, our veterans should be celebrated daily. Their reasons for serving their country may vary, but their sacrifice, purpose, and sense of obligation to others is equally appreciated. “There could be no definition of a successful life that does not include service to others,” once said President George H.W. Bush, a veteran himself.

Veteran’s Day was originally called Armistice Day and dates back to World War I AKA “the war to end all wars”. It was called Armistice Day after the Allied Nations and Germany declared an armistice (or ceasefire) on November 11, 1918. Even though that was not the official end of the war, Armistice Day quickly gained popularity across the world. In the United States, President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11, 1919, the first celebration of Armistice Day in honor of the ceasefire that took effect at the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.” 1938 was the year when Armistice Day became a federally recognized holiday. 

Unfortunately, there were more wars that followed the World War I. During the World War II and Korean War, November 11 was still commemorated as Armistice Day, but it only honored veterans who served in the World War I. In 1954 Congress officially changed the name from Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day, after being petitioned by veteran’s groups and service organizations. Since that year, Veteran’s Day honors American veterans of all wars. 

Veteran’s Day is intended to recognize the many sacrifices servicemembers have made to defend this nation and our freedom. It is a day to salute our veterans and express gratitude for their sacrifices that include leaving their family behind, missing birthdays and anniversaries, and at times losing friends in service. Sacrifice is an inherent part of their lives. Our servicemembers and their families sacrifice so that lives of other citizens can continue as “normal”. To all Veterans, we would like to express heartfelt gratitude!

Navy Mutual has provided affordable life insurance since 1879 to those who have served in uniform. It has always been our honor to serve those who have answered our nation’s call. As the nation’s oldest federally recognized Veterans Service Organization, we feel privileged to serve you. 

This article was originally published on Navy Mutual’s website, here is a link to the original article.

Did you enjoy reading this article? Visit our blog page to read other similar articles.